Valentinos

Valentinos Charalambous, born in 1929 in Famagusta, Cyprus, is a distinguished ceramic artist whose career spans over six decades. Raised in a family of traditional potters, he pursued formal studies at the Central School of Arts and Crafts in London from 1948 to 1951, under the tutelage of Dora Billington and Gilbert Harding-Green. He further honed his skills with Bernard Leach in Cornwall. After completing his studies, Charalambous returned to Cyprus, working alongside his father until 1957. That year, he was invited to Baghdad to establish the Department of Ceramics at the Institute of Fine Arts, a role he embraced for nearly three decades. In 1985, he returned to Cyprus, settling in Limassol, where he continues to create and exhibit his work.

Charalambous's oeuvre is characterized by a profound exploration of form and texture, often drawing inspiration from both Cypriot and Middle Eastern artistic traditions. His work encompasses wall-mounted pieces, bowls, and free-standing ceramic sculptures, reflecting a deep understanding of his medium. Notable exhibitions include a significant retrospective at the Evagoras Lanitis Center in Limassol in 2013, which showcased the breadth of his artistic journey. His contributions to art and education have been recognized internationally, including an award at the Cairo Triennale for Ceramics in 1992.

In the art market, Charalambous's works have been featured in various auctions, with pieces like "Dancer" and other ceramic sculptures being offered by Cypria Auctions. His creations are held in numerous private and public collections across Cyprus, Greece, the UK, Iraq, Egypt, Lebanon, and the USA, attesting to his enduring influence and the universal appeal of his artistry.